Beyonce’s “Cowboy Carter” won the album of the year prize at the 2025 Grammy Awards on Sunday, February 2 night.
Beyoncé, who is the most awarded artist in Grammys history, had never won the album of the year prize. She also made history by becoming the first Black woman to ever take home a golden gramophone in the Best Country Album.
Despite Cowboy Carter’s success, the album was snubbed by the Country Music Association Awards, sparking conversations about race and conservatism in the genre.
Accepting the award from Taylor Swift, Beyoncé — who appeared genuinely dumbfounded — said, “Wow, I really was not expecting this…. I think sometimes ‘genre’ is a code word to keep us in our place as artists,” she said, “And I just want to encourage people to do what they’re passionate about, and to stay persistent.”
Her victory represents a shift in the industry, further challenging traditional boundaries.
Other black artists also shined at the ceremony.
Kendrick Lamar won Song of the Year and Record of the Year for “Not Like Us”, a track that resonated deeply with audiences.
Rising rapper Doechii claimed Best Rap Album for “Alligator Bites Never Heal”, cementing her place among hip-hop’s elite.
These wins underscore the Recording Academy’s evolving recognition of Black artists across genres.
